My Happy Donut

A true San Francisco institution, My Happy Donut offers locals and visitors alike a quintessential 'mom-and-pop' experience right in the heart of the city. More than just a simple donut shop, this location has grown over the years into a full-service destination, combining a classic bakery with a substantial breakfast and sandwich deli. Its prime location on Columbus Avenue makes it a bustling and welcoming corner spot, conveniently situated where North Beach meets Chinatown and the Financial District.

For decades, My Happy Donut has been serving up the foundational treats that define the American donut landscape, alongside a diverse menu that can satisfy any morning craving—or any craving, for that matter, as the shop also features hearty lunch and all-day breakfast options. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick, sweet treat and a cup of their highly-regarded coffee, or settling in for a full meal, this casual spot is built for a comforting and satisfying experience.

The shop proudly offers a vast selection of classic donuts, from yeast-raised to dense cake varieties, along with a full slate of savory breakfast plates that rival traditional diners. Furthermore, it adds a unique layer of local flavor by operating as a California Lottery retailer, a feature that many patrons enjoy, as noted by customer reviews who appreciate the authentic San Francisco vibe this adds to the atmosphere.

For California residents in the Bay Area looking for a reliable, friendly, and comprehensive stop for sweets, coffee, and a great meal, My Happy Donut is a well-established local gem that promises quality and value in a famously vibrant and busy part of San Francisco.

Location and Accessibility

My Happy Donut enjoys a highly visible and centrally located address at 145 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA. This location places it in a high-traffic intersection, perfectly positioned between several key San Francisco neighborhoods. It is in the North Beach area, directly across the street from the iconic Columbus Tower (The Sentinal Building), and is only a block away from both the Transamerica Pyramid and the Hilton Financial District. This makes it an incredibly convenient stop for anyone working in the Financial District, exploring Chinatown via the Dragon's Gate entrance, or sightseeing in nearby North Beach and Union Square. Its proximity to major transit lines makes it easily accessible for commuters and city dwellers.

Accessibility for all customers is prioritized, as the shop features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can easily come in and enjoy the offerings. The central, high-energy location provides a lively, casual atmosphere, making it a great destination for a quick visit or a relaxed meal before tackling the rest of your day in the city.

Services Offered

As a multi-faceted local business, My Happy Donut provides a comprehensive range of products and services, catering to a variety of customer needs throughout the day. The offerings go far beyond the typical donut shop, securing its place as a crucial neighborhood fixture.

• Donut Shop Specialties: A wide selection of classic yeast and cake donuts, including customer favorites like the legendary Apple Fritter, Raised Donuts, Old Fashioned, Buttermilk Bars, French Crullers, Custard Rounds, Jelly Donuts, Cinnamon Rolls, and various donut holes (regular and mixed).
• Full Breakfast Restaurant: Serving comprehensive breakfast options like the All-American Favorite (eggs, hash browns, toast, and choice of meat), Breakfast Burritos, Eggs and Hash Browns Meals, Corned Beef Hash and Eggs, Omelets (Cheese Lovers, Veggie, Denver), and griddle favorites like Hot Cakes and French Toast. Note that breakfast is served during morning hours.
• Breakfast Sandwiches & Bagels: A variety of sandwiches prepared on choice of bread (white, wheat, sourdough, English muffin, bagel, or croissant), with fillings such as Egg, Cheese & Meat (bacon, sausage, ham, or turkey), Egg, Cheese & Avocado, and the ABC (Avocado, Bacon, Cheddar) Sandwich. Bagels are offered with spreads like cream cheese, butter, jelly, Nutella, and peanut butter, including savory options like the Lox Bagel.
• Deli and Pastries: In addition to the extensive donut and breakfast menu, the shop offers pastries, including various filled and plain croissants, muffins, and a selection of deli-style sandwiches like BLTs, Tuna Salad, and Club Sandwiches.
• Beverages: A full menu of coffee and other hot drinks, including drip coffee, espresso drinks (Latte, Cappuccino, Americano, Mocha), Hot Chocolate, and Vietnamese Iced Coffee.
• Service Options: Customers can choose from dine-in seating, quick takeout, or delivery services for maximum convenience.
• California Lottery Retailer: The shop is an authorized retailer for the California Lottery, providing an extra service for locals.

Features / Highlights

My Happy Donut distinguishes itself with several key features that contribute to its enduring popularity and positive reputation within the San Francisco community.

• The Legendary Apple Fritter: Often highlighted by patrons as a must-try item, the Apple Fritter is renowned for its excellent quality—crispy exterior, moist interior, and fresh, non-oily taste. It is recognized as one of the best in San Francisco.
• Great Coffee: The shop's beverage program is a significant highlight, with customers frequently commending the quality of the coffee, which perfectly complements the fresh pastries and breakfast meals.
• Welcoming and Inclusive Atmosphere: The establishment is noted for being a Transgender Safespace and LGBTQ+ friendly, creating a casual and comfortable environment for all members of the community.
• Extensive Menu: Unlike smaller, specialized donut shops, My Happy Donut provides a vast and varied menu that serves as a one-stop-shop for a full breakfast, a quick coffee break, a sweet dessert, or a savory sandwich.
• Historic and Family-Owned: Opened in 1995 and family-owned and operated for decades, the shop maintains a genuine, nostalgic 'mom-and-pop vibe' that is increasingly rare in urban centers, offering traditional flavors and reasonable prices.
• Convenient Payment Options: The shop accepts all modern forms of payment, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions quick and effortless for those on the go.
• Ideal for Solo Dining: The casual, quick-visit atmosphere makes it a popular and comfortable choice for individuals dining alone.

Contact Information

For direct inquiries, placing an order for pick-up, or general information, please use the following contact details.

Address: 145 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

Phone: (415) 956-9189

What is Worth Choosing

For anyone in California or visiting the San Francisco area, My Happy Donut is worth choosing for several compelling reasons that resonate with a desire for both traditional comfort food and a genuine local experience. The shop is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic, high-quality donuts. Their commitment to classics, from the simple, light Raised Donut to the rich, crinkled Old Fashioned, means you get authentic flavors without the pretension. The Apple Fritter, in particular, has earned its reputation and is a definite must-try, often praised for its fresh preparation.

Beyond the sweets, the establishment shines as a vital community hub. It skillfully merges the fast-paced energy of a downtown deli with the comforting warmth of a family-run bakery. The option to grab a hot and filling savory breakfast—like the customizable Breakfast Sandwich or the full All-American Favorite plate—alongside a highly-rated cup of coffee, provides a complete and satisfying start to any morning. This dual function makes it an incredibly practical choice, whether you need a quick, delicious chocolate donut and iced coffee on your way to work or a casual sit-down meal.

The added character provided by its role as a lottery retailer, as noted by customer reviews, contributes to an authentic and down-to-earth neighborhood atmosphere. Moreover, the dedication to an inclusive, friendly environment solidifies its standing as a welcoming place for everyone. My Happy Donut is more than just a place to buy food; it's a slice of consistent, friendly San Francisco life, offering a reliable dose of happiness and a perfectly made donut to countless patrons every day. This combination of culinary variety, quality, community spirit, and convenience makes it a truly valuable and highly recommended local business.

My Happy Donut

145 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA